I greet you with the joy of Jesus. In the midst of all that’s happened, let me pause and say, Praise the Lord, God’s people have been giving to our needs in the building of our new and improved church building. What a difference it makes in the conveniences and the beauty of our worship area. Although we know the church is the body of believers, we know that is is important to have the best possible building to attract unbelievers, to meet the needs of our Youth and adults, and to draw our attention from the world as we meet with our God.

Each penny and dollar given for this fund has gone directly into this building, and we are so thankful for each individual who has made this possible.

Let’s keep up the good work until the job is complete and we can publically have a service of victory, our love in giving encourages me as your pastor and as your friend in Christ.

I was to express my sincere gratitude for the generosity you have shown through the years. When the need was great, you dug deep into your personal resources and helped to bring success in our endeavors. I want to say thank you to all ministry leaders and ministries for the labor of love that you’ve given to this church body. So many times during this journey I have gained strength from watching you and observing your commitment to God and this church. I can’t begin to tell you how much you all mean to me. Because of you, I’m committed to being the best preacher and pastor that I can be. I have to express to the entire Calvary Family my heartfelt appreciation to you for tolerating my preaching. I know that at times I can be a little long, but it’s because you all are in my heart and I want the blessings from God’s word to fill your heart and mind. I promise to do better with my time length. PRAY FOR ME!

Calvary, you stuck in there through thick and thin. To the members who stayed, served, gave, and supported through our wilderness years and valley days, I need to say, “Thank You”. The tough times makes us stronger. We are team mates. With love for Jesus and this church, you leaned over the plate and took the hit for our church. It’s an honor to be on this team with you. To all of you who have invited your friends and family, I want to say thank you. Oh brothers and sisters, the church grows primarily by word of mouth. Changed people are contagious. When church members tell their family and friends how the Lord has changed them, the Gospel goes out. I love hearing people say to me, “I started coming to this church when my friends or family invited me.”

Finally I want to say thank you for allowing me to be me. I’ve had my share of seasons as a pastor. In the past 23 years of pastoring I’ve tried to give this church the best I have. I’ve discovered that I am at my best when I am me. You have allowed me to do me, and to make serving this membership a joyful experience. I realize that I still have a lot of growing and maturing to do but thank you Calvary for allowing me to grow and mature along with you.

Last but certainly not least of all, I want to say thank you to Mrs. Lora Kinner-Oliver, my wife and your First Lady. You have kept me grounded and focused throughout this journey from 109 E. 40 1/2 street to 9013 McGallion Rd. Your love for this church has been on display at every level. You are truly an example of unselfish love for the Body of Christ. Thank you so much for standing with me, pushing and cheering me on.
Sincerely in His Name,

Pastor Shannon T. Oliver